Thinking about adding cruise control to your 1998 Impreza? You might be surprised to learn that it’s a relatively straightforward DIY project, especially if your Impreza is a ’96 model like the original poster’s! This guide will walk you through the process, drawing on the experience of a fellow Impreza enthusiast who successfully installed cruise control using parts from a 1998 Forester. While this guide references a ’96 Impreza, the parts and process are highly relevant for anyone looking to upgrade their 1998 Impreza model.
Parts You’ll Need for Your 1998 Impreza Cruise Control Retrofit
To get started, you’ll need to source the following components, ideally from a 1998 Forester or a similar year Impreza. Compatibility is key, especially concerning the transmission type (Automatic Transmission – AT or Manual Transmission – MT).
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Cruise Control Module: This is the brain of the operation. Crucially, ensure it matches your transmission type (AT or MT). These modules are labeled, so check before you acquire one. The good news is that the connector for this module is likely already present in your 1998 Impreza, tucked away under the dash above your left foot.
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Dash Cruise Switch: This is the switch that goes on your dashboard, allowing you to engage and disengage cruise control. Like the module, the connector for this switch should also be pre-wired in your 1998 Impreza. You’ll typically find a blank plate in the console piece around your gauges which you can remove to install the switch.
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Brake Switch: The cruise control brake switch is essential for disengaging cruise control when you press the brake pedal. Locate the existing brake switch above your brake pedal; the connector for the cruise control switch should be taped nearby. When swapping switches, pay close attention to the threads and adjustment to ensure your brake lights function correctly and cruise control disengages properly.
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Actuator, Vacuum Hose, T-Connector, and Brackets: The actuator is the component that physically controls the throttle cable under the hood. It mounts in a stock location, and brackets from a Forester (or likely another Impreza) should work. The connector for the actuator is pre-wired and typically found taped to the harness near the passenger side strut tower. You’ll also need a T-connector to splice into your intake manifold vacuum lines for the actuator to function.
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Steering Wheel Switch/Lever: This is for controlling cruise functions from the steering wheel. The original poster noted that there’s no need to remove the steering wheel itself. You’ll need to remove the airbag (after safely disconnecting the battery and taking appropriate precautions to avoid accidental deployment!) to access the right side of the horn actuator. There should be a blank where the switch passes through on the steering wheel. The wiring for this switch should also be pre-existing and use the same connectors, meaning no wire splicing is necessary.
Installation Steps for 1998 Impreza Cruise Control
With your parts gathered, you can proceed with the installation. Remember to always prioritize safety, especially when working around electrical components and the airbag system.
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Cruise Control Module Installation: Locate the pre-wired connector taped up under the dash, above your left foot. Connect the cruise control module and mount it securely. Zip ties can be helpful for mounting if needed.
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Dash Cruise Switch Installation: Remove the screws on the console piece around your gauges to access the blank switch plate. Pop out the blank, connect the pre-wired connector to your new cruise switch, and insert the switch into the console. Reassemble the console piece.
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Brake Switch Installation: Find the pre-wired connector for the cruise brake switch above the brake pedal. Swap out your existing brake switch with the new cruise control brake switch. Carefully adjust the new switch to match the thread depth of the old one to ensure proper brake light and cruise disengagement functionality.
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Actuator Installation: Under the hood, locate the pre-wired connector near the passenger side strut tower. Mount the actuator in the stock location using the appropriate brackets. Connect the vacuum hose using the provided T-connector to splice into an existing vacuum line on the intake manifold. Connect the electrical connector.
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Steering Wheel Switch Installation: Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable and pump the brakes a few times to discharge any residual electricity before working on the steering wheel and airbag. Remove the airbag by loosening the two star screws on the back of the steering wheel. Carefully detach the airbag connectors. Remove the right side of the spring-loaded horn actuator. Pop out the blank on the steering wheel for the switch. Swap the wiring for the new steering wheel switch, ensuring connectors are properly seated. Reassemble the horn actuator, and carefully reconnect the airbag and reinstall it. Finally, reconnect the negative battery cable.
Potential Issues and Considerations for your 1998 Impreza Upgrade
The original installer noted a couple of minor issues they encountered:
- Actuator Cable Length: The cable from the Forester actuator was slightly shorter than ideal, but still functional. This is something to be aware of, and it’s possible an Impreza-specific actuator cable might be a better fit if length is a concern.
- Steering Wheel Switch Functionality: The “Resume” and “Cancel” functions from the Forester steering wheel switch didn’t work with their setup. They speculated that using a cruise control module from a 1998 Impreza might resolve this issue. If you encounter similar problems, this is a potential troubleshooting step.
By following these steps, you can add the convenience of cruise control to your 1998 Impreza, enhancing your driving experience, especially on longer journeys. Remember to double-check parts compatibility for your specific 1998 Impreza model and transmission type to ensure a smooth and successful installation.
